Fort Lauderdale is in the south east of the American state of Florida. Nicknamed the ‘Venice of America’ because of its 300 miles of canals and waterways, it is a popular destination for water sports and fishing trips.
Numerous water-based activities are available throughout the resort with kayaking the canals, gondola rides and taking in the sights whilst aboard a water taxi being favourites on a Fort Lauderdale holiday.
What are the beaches like in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale is in the south east of the American state of Florida. Nicknamed the ‘Venice of America’ because of its 300 miles of canals and waterways, it is a popular destination for water sports and fishing trips.
Numerous water-based activities are available throughout the resort with kayaking the canals, gondola rides and taking in the sights whilst aboard a water taxi being favourites on a Fort Lauderdale holiday.
What are the beaches like in Fort Lauderdale?
With 23 miles of white sand, lined with palm trees and backed by restaurants and hotels the beaches in Fort Lauderdale are ideal for everyone. Most beaches offer water sports including kayaking, jet skiing and surfing with volleyball a possible option for those wanting to stay dry.
Hollywood Beach, south east of downtown Fort Lauderdale, is a popular spot and can be busy during key holidays and weekends but its mix of sun, sea and shopping make it an excellent choice! The promenade is lined with enough shops and restaurants to keep the whole family entertained during the day and into the evening.
Culture & history
A Fort Lauderdale holiday offers a diverse range of museums and art galleries including the International Swimming Hall of Fame and the Fort Lauderdale Historical Museum. The Museum of Art has a range of exhibits including Cuban art and Picasso ceramics. The Museum of Discovery and Science contains over 200 interactive exhibits. You could end your visit there by experiencing a 3D IMAX film.
Eating out in
Las Olas Boulevard is the main entertainment area on your holiday to Fort Lauderdale with many dining options. There are more than 4,000 restaurants for you to try across the resort with every cuisine imaginable covered.
Seafood is plentiful and of a high quality and Mexican, French and Asian flavours are popular. Be sure to try the Florida specialty key lime pie, made with local key limes
Destination Hotel
This is destination hotel subtitleThe Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale
Overview If you're looking to splash out in style, The Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale is as polished as it gets. Set right across from the beach, it blends traditional luxury with a bit of that Florida flair. Service is next-level, the location is spot-on, and the vibe is elegant without being too formal. A proper treat-yourself stay. Poolside The rooftop pool deck is a stunner — with sleek loungers, ocean views, and full food and drink service. It’s calm, classy, and beautifully maintained. It’s not loud or flashy — just peaceful and perfect. Food & Drink There’s a standout steak…
Riverside Hotel
Overview Set along Las Olas Boulevard, the Riverside Hotel is one of Fort Lauderdale’s best-kept secrets. It’s historic, full of character, and perfectly placed for shopping, dining, and exploring downtown. It’s not on the beach — but you get charm, comfort, and location in spades. A great pick if you prefer culture and city buzz over sand. Poolside There’s a decent-sized outdoor pool tucked into the palm-lined courtyard. It’s quiet, relaxed, and ideal for a midday cool-off or winding down after exploring Las Olas. No frills, just simple and serene. Food & Drink There are a couple of well-loved on-site…
Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale
Overview Hyatt Centric Las Olas is a stylish downtown hotel that’s all about location. You’re right in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s buzzy Las Olas district — think rooftop drinks, galleries, riverfront walks, and loads of bars and restaurants. It’s not beachfront, but it’s perfect for a city break with a bit of Florida flair. Poolside The rooftop pool is a definite highlight — modern, scenic, and just high enough to catch a breeze. There’s a chilled-out bar up there too, so it’s a great place to relax after a day exploring. More grown-up than splash zone — perfect for…
Hotel Maren
Overview Hotel Maren is a boutique hotel with a modern vibe, set right across from the beach. It’s stylish, friendly, and just the right size to feel personal but still offer those resort-like perks. A great choice for couples or solo travellers who want beachfront views and Fort Lauderdale buzz all in one place. Poolside There’s a rooftop pool that’s compact but classy — think soft loungers, skyline views, and chilled music in the background. Not for kids’ splash time — more for cooling off after the beach or grabbing a quiet hour with a book. Food & Drink Rivertail,…
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Overview Pelican Grand Beach Resort is a throwback in the best way — rocking chairs on the porch, a lazy river, and a private beach that stretches for miles. It’s got a slightly old-school charm, but with the comfort and space today’s travellers want. Perfect for families or couples who want the beach right on their doorstep without the big-resort feel. Poolside There’s a zero-entry pool plus a lazy river — rare for a hotel this size. It’s peaceful, scenic, and just a few steps from the beach. Not flashy, just easy-going and spot on for lazy days in the…
Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort
Overview Beach House is Fort Lauderdale’s take on casual coastal charm — part Hilton resort, part beach bungalow. It’s friendly, modern, and right on the sand. Best for couples or families who want location and comfort without the big-resort fuss. Poolside There’s a beachfront pool with loungers and umbrellas, plus poolside drink service. It’s relaxed and family-friendly, with the ocean just steps away. Simple, sunny, and just what you need. Food & Drink The main restaurant offers coastal cuisine with indoor-outdoor seating, and there’s a bar for sunset cocktails. Plenty of nearby options too, if you fancy a wander. Entertainment…
W Fort Lauderdale
Overview The W Fort Lauderdale is bold, modern, and full of energy. It's got the beach out front and party vibes inside — ideal if you're after a stay with serious personality. Think rooftop bars, slick design, and a social scene that runs from morning smoothies to midnight cocktails. Poolside There are two rooftop pools — one is more chilled with ocean views, the other’s where the action is, with DJs, cabanas, and that Miami-style buzz. If you like your sunbathing with a soundtrack, you’ll love it here. Food & Drink From a buzzing steakhouse to a rooftop sushi spot,…
AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Beach
Overview AC Hotel brings European-inspired style to the Fort Lauderdale beachfront. It’s modern, minimalist, and well-placed for both beach time and city exploring. Best for couples or business travellers looking for fuss-free comfort. Poolside The rooftop pool has ocean views, shaded loungers, and a very chill vibe. Not huge, but well done. A solid spot to recharge. Food & Drink There’s a rooftop bar with tapas-style bites and cocktails. Breakfast is sleek and continental. Simple, smart, and stylish. Entertainment Evenings mean drinks at the rooftop or heading out to nearby restaurants and lounges. Quiet onsite, buzzing all around you. Sports…
Courtyard by Marriott FT. Lauderdale Beach
Overview If you're looking for beachfront convenience without the mega-resort vibe, Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Beach hits the mark. It’s right on the sand and within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the iconic beachfront promenade. It’s a great pick for couples or small families who want a clean, comfy base in a prime location. Poolside The pool isn’t massive, but it’s got great views and a relaxed vibe. Set on an elevated deck, it overlooks the beach with plenty of loungers to go around. Simple, sunny, and fuss-free — exactly what you need for a quick dip and a drink.…
Sonesta Fort Lauderdale
Overview Sonesta Fort Lauderdale sits right across the street from the beach, offering sea views and a stylish, modern vibe. It’s bright, breezy, and full of floor-to-ceiling windows to let that Florida sunshine pour in. Great for couples and small families looking for an easy beach holiday without the hefty price tag. Poolside There’s a small outdoor pool with plenty of loungers and a chilled atmosphere. It’s not huge, but it’s got a nice view of the ocean and works well for laid-back afternoons. A handy spot to recharge after a morning at the beach. Food & Drink The hotel’s…
Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach
Overview The Conrad is all about laid-back luxury with a contemporary twist. Set right on the Fort Lauderdale beachfront, it offers spacious all-suite accommodation, making it ideal for longer stays, families, or anyone after a little more room to breathe. Stylish without being stuffy, it’s a smart pick for those who want upscale comforts without going full formal. Poolside There’s a sleek rooftop pool with panoramic ocean views, chic loungers, and a tranquil, almost spa-like vibe. It’s not a party pool — think quiet swims, sunbathing, and attentive service. Great for couples and downtime-focused travellers. Food & Drink You’ve got…
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Overview If you want the best of both worlds — private beach and resort-style amenities — this Marriott delivers. Set on a secluded stretch of Fort Lauderdale Beach, it’s a step up from your typical chain hotel. Ideal for families, couples, and anyone who wants a splash of luxury without heading into full five-star territory. Poolside There’s a large lagoon-style pool just steps from the sand, with palm trees, loungers, and a pool bar that keeps the vibe just right. You’ll find families, couples, and solo travellers all happily mixing in — it’s big enough that it never feels crowded.…
Four Seasons Hotel & Residences Fort Lauderdale
Overview If you're after next-level luxury in Fort Lauderdale, the Four Seasons is the place. It's beachfront, beautifully designed, and everything feels just a bit more elevated — from the service to the sea views. It’s new, it’s stylish, and it’s got that signature Four Seasons calm, making it ideal for couples or travellers wanting a top-tier stay. Poolside There are two ocean-view pools with sleek loungers and top-tier service. It’s peaceful, polished, and the kind of place where someone offers you a towel before you even ask. Think quiet luxury, not pool parties. Food & Drink The dining here…
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